
OBITUARIES
A Remembrance of Loved Ones
Edward Bigley
It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Edward "Big Ed" Bigley, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend, who left us peacefully on March 9, 2025, at the age of 81.
Edward was born to the late Elizabeth King and Sherman Bigley. Known for his larger-than-life personality, he earned the nickname "Big Ed" early in life, and it stuck with him throughout his years. Ed’s warm smile, kind heart, and undeniable generosity were just a few of the many traits that made him such a special person to all who knew him.
Ed proudly served his country as a member of the United States Army, a time in his life that shaped him as a person and contributed to the strong values he carried with him throughout his years.
He was the loving husband of Helen Bigley for 50 wonderful years, and together, they built a life filled with love, laughter, and shared memories. Their bond was one of unwavering support, and Ed’s love for Helen was evident in everything he did.
Ed was a devoted father to his children, Edward, Richard, and the late Steven, and a proud Papaw to his many grandchildren: Kayla (Drew), Tony (Amber), Samantha (Louis), Autumn (Stephen), Edmund, Addie, Izzie, Nathan, Brandon, Savannah, Danielle, Alaina, and Jeremiah. He was also a treasured Papaw to his great-grandchildren: Mariah, Ariella, Bryson, Nash, Madyson, Thomas, Stephen, Declan, Evelyn, Zylah, and Amora. Ed cherished family gatherings, where his love and generosity were felt by all.
Ed was also blessed with many siblings who were an important part of his life: Jamie, Duane, Robert, Richard, Kristine, Karen, Billie Jo, and Joyce. His bond with them was one of love, laughter, and mutual support.
Throughout his life, Ed had many interests and passions that brought him joy. He had a great love for bowling, spending countless hours on the lanes, honing his skills and enjoying the camaraderie of friends and fellow bowlers. While bowling was his true passion, he also enjoyed golfing as a leisurely pastime. Whether on the green or the lanes, he loved to compete and connect with others through these activities.
Ed was also a longtime fan of sports, particularly the Cleveland Browns, Ohio State University, wrestling, and racing. He found joy in watching his favorite teams and athletes, always eager to share his excitement with family and friends.
Big Ed’s legacy will live on in the hearts of his beloved wife, Helen, his children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, siblings, friends, and all who were touched by his incredible spirit. His sense of humor, unshakable faith in his loved ones, and genuine kindness will never be forgotten.
Burial will take place at Unionville Cemetery, 6870 S Ridge Rd, Geneva, OH 44041 (behind Unionville United Church of Christ) at 1:30 PM on March 29, 2025. A celebration of Ed's life will follow at 3:00 PM at VFW Post 8548, 7604 Lake Rd E, Madison, OH 44057.
Though we are heartbroken by his passing, we find comfort knowing that his impact on our lives will never fade, and that he is now at peace.
Rest in peace, Big Ed. You will be deeply missed but forever remembered.
David R. Ledenican Sr.
David R. Ledenican Sr. passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, January 16th, 2025, at the young age of 67 in his residence in Mentor, Ohio. Due to a heart issue that could no longer be denied, the spirit in the sky carried him onto his next big adventure, reuniting him with all his loved ones that departed this life before him. Dave, as we all knew him as, was born in Akron, Ohio, on September 25th, 1957, to Patricia and Ervin Ledenican.
Growing up in Timberlake, where his father built his childhood home, brought about countless memorable fun-filled stories of spending unlimited hours on those endless waves of Lake Erie. He spent much of his youth and adult life adding to the memoir of his venturesome journey with his deep love for boating, fishing, and swimming, as this was one of his favorite places to be.
He lived a very full life, from traveling through the states at a young age, attending many of the old-time concerts, spending time on a yacht for a year, living on Indian reservations in Arizona, and many many more unforgettable stories. But some of his most cherished pastimes, besides on the waters of Lake Erie, were spent riding on his Harleys. He loved the sun on his face, the wind in his hair, and the road at his back. Within his multitude of reminiscing, he had even mentioned that he rode alongside well-known motorcycle clubs, enjoying that open road and adding to his adventurous tales of his crazy and wild past. He had an undying love for music and would listen to it for hours, as rhythm and blues are what coursed through his veins and consumed his soul; wherever he was, you could hear his deep, loudly spoken voice telling you of his shenanigans (probably for the 50th time) over the jamming tunes of that sweet old Rock and Roll.
As a young restless spirit wandering the lands, he found himself far from home in the hot state of Arizona, and much to his surprise, he met another like him; her name was Marsha Papenhagen, just as restless and spirited from his neighboring state of Michigan. When these two stumbled across one another in such a distant land from their own, a whole new journey began, and they married in January of 1979. Unfortunately, Marsha was taken suddenly in 1993 and his heart was broken. He spent much of his life trying to fill that void, and now that long-awaited reunion has finally happened, and until death do us part brings on a whole new meaning.
He spent a great deal of his life driving cement trucks and working on cars, and in the early 80s he and his wife Marsha had started an awning business together, of which they ran for years. His creative mind was forever busy; he would constantly be tinkering with any odds and ends he had lying around, coming up with the most interesting of inventions. He was the mastermind behind many thingamabobs and doohickeys, and he could build or fix just about anything you could throw at him. Some would call him a pack rat, but to him they were treasures to be had, and everything had a use.
Much of his last years were dedicated to his 3 best buds, his birds; Kakers, Hector birdy, and Hannah. He'd spend hours having coffee and banana time with Kakers, talking and jamming to tunes, and no one could scratch Hector birdie's head better than his daddy, and then there was Hannah that would just fly around trying to find her way to freedom to get away from all those crazy men. But his deep, dying love was for his children, Roxanne, David Jr., and Bobby. He loved spending hours teaching them how to work on cars and houses, fishing and hunting, and mostly just hanging out telling the tales of his past.
He thoroughly enjoyed family parties and holidays surrounded by his family and friends, acting like a big goofball. He was a master of sarcastic risqué humor and witty comebacks. He was one who would tell you like it was with nothing whatsoever to hold back, as to some this was his rough edge, but it made him one of the most authentic individuals you would ever meet. He was all the age of 18 in his mind, but his body felt every second of those hard-working years and even harder playing. His love for cooking and parties resulted in endless hours of crazy cookouts. He was a big, burly bear but had a gentle heart and would have given you the shirt off his back and then some.
Dave is survived by his daughter Roxanne (Ledenican) Boncser, his two sons, David (Heather) Ledenican Jr. and Robert (Jacey) Ledenican, and his grandchildren Alexis and Ben Boncser, Skyler Friedman, Giana and Layla Ledenican, Paisley, Wesley, Banks, and Ila Ledenican. His sister Susan Dick and brother Patrick (PJ) Ledenican and many beloved cousins. And last but not least, his 3 favorite birds: Hector birdy, Hannah, and Kakers. He was preceded in heaven by his mother Patricia (Hruby) Ledenican and father Erv Ledenican, wife Marsha (Papenhagen) Ledenican, stepdaughter Anitra Clark, cousin Rick Ledenican, niece Jennifer Delvillian, grandparents, and many more who greeted him home to the eternal afterlife.
He was a one-of-a-kind, never-to-be-duplicated free spirit that nobody could hold down; he was a beloved father, son, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend and will be deeply missed but fondly remembered for his love of music, his hard work, and the kindness he showed to those around him.
Per Dave's wishes, there will be no services or memorials at this time, but we will be holding a celebration of life gathering as he wanted us to enjoy time with family and friends listening to his favorite music, eating all his favorite foods and to share all the loving memories of his brief time here with us. For more information, please email roxanneboncser@yahoo.com. Thank you for all your love and support during this difficult time.
Suzanne Redfern
It is with a heavy heart that we share the news of the passing of our mother, Suzanne Redfern. On March 4th, 2025, mom moved on to her next chapter in her eternal spiritual journey.
Suzanne joins her mother, father and brother who preceded her passing. She is survived by her loving daughters, and many other family and friends.
Suzanne Redfern graced this world for 71 years. Her life was one marked by love, strength, and an unwavering dedication to her family, animals and her passions. Born with a heart full of compassion, she devoted her life to caring for others, leaving a memorable mark as a nurse and caretaker, touching countless lives with her healing hands and care.
Mom’s love for animals, especially for her cats and horses, was truly memorable. This love was not just a hobby; it was a testament to her belief in the beauty and sanctity of all living creatures.
Her achievements were many, but perhaps her greatest was the legacy of love and strength she left behind. As a singer, her voice was as powerful as her spirit, lifting the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to hear her. Her laughter was a melody in itself, and her sense of humor was unforgettable if you knew her well.
Mom was a fighter, a woman of immense strength and resilience. Her courage in the face of adversity taught us what it truly means to be strong. She was spiritual in her universal faith, which was a source of comfort and inspiration to those around her.
Thank you, Mom, for everything. We love you, and we will carry your legacy forward with grace and gratitude. May you rest in peace, surrounded by the love and memories you so freely gave to us all.
In memory of Suzanne, our family asks that you make a donation to your favorite animal focused charity to honor her memory.
Andrea L. Gerich
Andrea L. Gerich age 79, of Mentor, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on March 2, 2025. Loving wife of the late Joseph G. Jr. Loving companion to Dennis Anderson. Devoted mother of Julie Musarra (Anthony), Joe Gerich III, Ben Gerich (Kerry). Cherished grandma of Madeline and Michael Musarra, Joey Gerich IV, Benjamin, Sallie, and Matthew Gerich. Aunt to Leslie Biskner, Meigan and Jessica Gerich, and Samantha Swan. Dear sister of the late Joyce Walters. Sister-in-law of Stanley, Mathew, and Steven Gerich. Daughter of the late John and Ann Starc.
Funeral Mass 10:00AM Saturday March 8, 2025 at St. Mary’s Church, 15519 Holmes Ave, Cleveland, OH 44110.
Ethel D. Blair
Ethel D. Blair (nee Office), age 92, passed away peacefully on February 28, 2025. Beloved wife for 57 years to the late Robert A. Loving mother of Robert A. Jr. (deceased), Scot C. and Laura Lee (Aichele). Cherished daughter of Martin and Edmo (nee Combs) Office; sister of Ruth Toth (Ernie), and Donald Office (Pauline) all deceased. Dearest aunt, great-aunt, and friend of many.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations may be made in Ethel’s name to: The Shriners Hospital for Children, donatelovetotherescue.org.
God Bless You Mom!
Private family services with Burial in Lakeview Cemetery.
Cecilia E. Clement
Cecilia E. (Sis) Clement (Dougherty) Age 81, Born on February 3, 1944, in Cleveland, Ohio to Claremont & Cecilia Dougherty. Passed away peacefully at home on February 21, 2025. Devoted wife of 60 plus years to Lawrence. Beloved mother to Lawrence Jr. (Samantha), Edward (Cindy) and Andrew. Grandmother to Brianna(deceased), Taylar, Jesse, Jordan, Justin, Delaney and Macey.
She stayed at home and raised our children for the first 20 years, then went to work at Karen Industries and retired after 19 years of service. She enjoyed spending time with her Grand kids.
She is survived by her brothers C.J. and Richard, and her sister Doris along with many nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Sis’s life will be held on March 29, 2025, at the AMVETS Post 40, 4179 Jordon Dr. in Mentor, Ohio from 4:00 to 8:00 PM. Please come and help celebrate our Mom, Friend and most of all Wife.
Tony Mlack
Tony Mlack passed away the morning of February 20th at the age of 74. Beloved and devoted husband, father, brother, uncle, and friend, he will be dearly missed by what his family called the “Tony Fan Club”. He leaves behind a loving wife of 32 years, Eileen (Grif) Mlack, children Grant and Lauren Mlack, sister Ginny (Mlack) Mooney, brothers Jerry Mlack, and Mark (Kimberely) Mlack, and many loved in-laws, nieces and nephews.
Tony grew up in Wickliffe to later receive a degree in marine biology from Ohio University after graduating from Wickliffe High School. He worked various positions at Lincoln Electric for over 30 years traveling the world where he finished as a mechanical engineer until retiring.
Tony met the love of his life, Eileen, in a class for learning to use computers at Lakeland Community College. She just so happened to also work at Lincoln Electric. After marrying, they went on to have two children, Grant and Lauren, who grew up in Chardon. Tony and Eileen worked hard to give them the most amazing childhood and loving home.
Following in his father’s footsteps, Tony took up a passion for woodworking and spent endless hours in his machine shop building anything you could imagine. He had many other hobbies to keep him busy, including teaching scuba diving in his earlier years, gardening, and wine, bread, and sausage making. One of his greatest joys was entertaining and cooking for family and friends.
Tony will be dearly missed by many and remembered for his strength and determination. In lieu of a traditional funeral, the family will be having a private celebration of life.
Brian Zemba
Brian Zemba, 51, unexpectedly passed away on February 23, 2025. Born on July 24, 1973, in Cleveland, he was the son of Edward and Theresa Zemba. A student of Euclid High School from the class of 1992, Brian was the owner and operator of Zemco Roofing, based in Mentor, where he also resided.
Brian embodied the essence of a fine whiskey; he was charismatic with an edge that resonated deeply and left a lasting impression on anyone he encountered. He was like a fierce Corvette, exuding confidence and power, impossible to overlook. Much like Elvis Presley, he radiated charm, spontaneity, and a vibrant enthusiasm, coupled with a generous spirit. Brian's qualities clearly reflected his passions, but his individuality came from his love for his wife Kim, his high school sweetheart, and their three children along with the business he built from scratch to provide a life he was proud of for his family.
Brian Zemba is survived by his wife, Kimberly Zemba (McAlindon); daughter, Nicole Zemba [Daryl] Looney; son, Edward Zemba; daughter, Adreanna Zemba; father, Edward Zemba; mother, Theresa Zemba; sister, Sharon Farmer (Zemba); sister, Marie Dubecky (Zemba); granddaughter, Myla Looney. Father/Mother-in-law, Robert [Rebecca] McAlindon; Brother/Sister-in-law, Derrick [Mackenzie] Gardner (McAlindon); Sister-in-law, Melissa [Liam] Corcoran (McAlindon), brother/sister-in-law, Rick [Lisa] Quick (Candish).
Harvest Community Church in Willoughby Hills (36400 Maplegrove Road) is set to hold a Celebration of Life on March 8, 2025, at 11:00 AM. In leu of flowers, Kim wishes to collect donations to aid Harvest Community Church’s mission, outreach, and educational initiatives, which serve as a faith-based support system for those in need of healing.
Brian's life was profoundly transformed by Harvest Community Church, where he was baptized into the fellowship of Christ on December 29, 2024. These contributions not only honor his memory but also aims to continue the church's impactful work in the community.
Please join us in celebrating a life well-lived while contributing to a cause that has brought hope and healing to many.
Go Fund Me Link: https://gofund.me/7c468767
Steven Kenneth Shults
Steven Kenneth Shults left this world suddenly on February 17, 2025 at the age of 76; surrounded by those closest to him at University Hospital Geauga. Steve was born in Marion, Ohio before moving to Delaware, Ohio where he graduated from Buckeye Valley High School in 1967. Steven then pursued a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Malone University in 1971. Upon completion of his degree Steven was then compelled to serve his country and enlisted in the United States Army in 1971 where he served his country until 1974. Then in 1976 Steven purchased his forever home in Newbury, Ohio. He dedicated 30 years of his life to his career at Diamond Shamrock in Painesville, Ohio. After his retirement Steve was able to indulge in his hobbies like exotic bird rescue, navigating the Cleveland Metroparks, and vintage glass collecting. Steve loved his gardens and bird watching almost as much as he loved his dog, Toby. Steven is preceded in death by his mother, grandparents, and sister. Steven is survived by his partner of 24 years Randy Maule, his daughter Sarah (Christopher) Saunders, his grandson Ryan, cherished friends Trisha (Michael) Gushura and their children, and Stacey Davis. Steven will be missed sorely here on Earth but we find peace in knowing that he is in the comfort of His Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. The family will be holding a private ceremony at the Western Reserve National Cemetery in Rittman, Ohio on March 14th at 2:15 in the afternoon. In Lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in his name to the Geauga County Dog Shelter where he got his Toby.
Teena Hossler
It is with heavy hearts, we share the passing of our beloved mother, daughter, sister, and grandmother, Teena Lynne Hossler, who left us on Wednesday, February 12, 2025.
Teena’s greatest joy in life was being a mother and grandmother. She poured her heart into her children—James Hossler (wife Grace Hossler), Arastasia Rolain, Zachary Steele, Chasity Dishman, and Jacob Steele—and found immense happiness in being a loving “Lissi” to her grandchildren, Aralynne and Carter. Her love knew no bounds, and her biggest pride was seeing her children happy.
Teena was a woman of nurture and creativity. She found peace and happiness lying in the warm sunshine, especially at the beach on Lake Erie. She adored thunderstorms, all things spooky, and had a special connection to dragonflies. Her love for music filled our lives with countless cherished memories, and her favorite poem, Nothing Gold Can Stay by Robert Frost, spoke to her soul.
She was also an incredible cook,her corn salsa being a staple in our family, and she cared deeply for her two beloved cats, TuttTutt and Alice.
Teena is survived by her mother, Janet Sivon; her children and grandchildren; her siblings, Theresa Miller Hossler and Ryan Deaton; and many loved ones who will forever cherish her memory. She was preceded in death by her father, Howard Hossler, and her brother, Dale Hossler.
We will honor Teena’s life with a Celebration of Life in March (details to come). In her memory, we encourage family and friends to send their favorite photos and songs that remind them of her to airyrolain@gmail.com. We will be celebrating her life the way she would have loved—sharing memories, making her favorite foods, and playing the songs that meant the most to her.
Though she is no longer with us, Teena’s love, laughter, and light will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew her.
Walter Lottig
Walter Lottig, age 73, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 19, 2025. He is survived by his beloved wife Cathy, his son Scott (Michelle) Conley and stepdaughter Melissa (Rich) Frangipane. Grandfather of Grace, Macari and Gavin. Cherished son of the late Elvin and Dolly. Darlene and Wilma and brothers Ray (April) and Jim (Penny), and the late David and Timmy Lottig. Walter worked at Orlando Baking Company for 26 years, as an oven tender, taking great pride in his bread baking skills. He enjoyed traveling, the beach and especially fishing. He enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren and family creating many cherished memories.
Betty A Tompkins
It is with deep sadness we announce the passing of Betty A Tompkins, 70, who left us on February 18, 2025. Surrounded by her loved ones in her final moments.
Born in Manistique, MI to Norman and Betty McDonald. As the “Baby” of 6, Betty took full advantage. Betty loved her shenanigans from the very beginning to the very end and was so full of life.
Betty had 30 amazing years with her career at Target, and loved everyone beyond measure. To know Betty was to love her and everyone did.
Betty is survived by her loving partner, Gary Vild, of 27 years, daughter Elizabeth (Michael), her amazing grandson, Jacob, her two sisters Sharon Rutherford and Alice Ventura, and many nieces and nephews. Friends that turned into family.
Betty loved life and loved her grandson fiercely. Her quick wit and smile made everyones life brighter and she will be missed tremendously.
Betty was never one for hoopla, so there will be no services per her request.
This is not goodbye, mom. It’s ‘till I see you again.
Colleen Schmidt
Colleen Schmidt, born on October 14, 1947, in Solon, OH, passed away on January 1, 2025 Cleveland OH. A beloved teacher, Colleen dedicated her life to nurturing young minds and fostering a love for learning. She was known for her passion for reading and enjoyed baking, particularly her famous homemade fudge.
Colleen was married to Kenneth Edward Schmidt II, and together they created a warm and loving home. She is survived by her children, Kristin Schmidt, Kayla Schmidt (Allen) and Brett Schmidt, as well as her cherished grandchildren: Hannah, Mackenzie, Gavin, Brendan, Keira, Addison, Kiley, and Liam.
Colleen is also survived by her sister, Patricia Uguccini and her nephew, Jeffrey Uguccini (Michelle) as well as great nieces and nephew.
Colleen attended Solon High School, and went on to study at Kent State University. She dedicated her career to education, working as a teacher in the Ashtabula area city schools until her retirement in 2004.
Outside of work, Colleen enjoyed reading, baking and spending time with her grandchildren. Colleen had a special fondness for animals, bringing joy and companionship into her life. She often spent her time reliving the sounds of the '60s, her favorite era for music.
She will be remembered for her kind and caring nature, as well as her passion for learning and helping others.
Colleen succumbed to cancer, but her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. She will be remembered for her kindness, her love of family, and the happiness she brought to those around her. Her legacy will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
Colleen is preceded in death by her husband Kenneth Edward Schmidt ll, her daughter Meggan Wetklow (McMahon), her parents John and Marion McMahon, and her Brother Gerald Dennis McMahon.
A celebration of life will be held 11:30 A.M. Saturday March 1st 2025 At Freedom Assembly 5420 W. Heisley Rd. Mentor Ohio 44060.
Melissa Pountney
Melissa “Tails” Pountney, 34, of Cleveland, Ohio, passed away unexpectedly on February 5, 2025. Born in Cleveland, Ohio, on July 7, 1990. Melissa is survived by her loving family: Her father and step-mother Richard R. Pountney and Margaret Pountney, her mother Mary K. Pountney, her sisters Sandra Hart, Rebecca Pountney, Stephanie DeBarber, Mary Pountney, Anna Pullen and Jessica Pullen, and her brother Stewart Hart.She was a cherished sister, daughter, and friend, leaving behind an unforgettable legacy of love and kindness. Tails, as she was affectionately known, was a fiercely caring person who would do anything for those she loved. She was the kind of person who would give the shirt off her back to make sure someone else was okay. Melissa worked as a veterinary technician and found joy in caring for animals, though a disability eventually made it difficult for her to continue in her profession. Despite these challenges, Tails never allowed her condition to stop her from supporting her loved ones for as long as she could. Her gentle spirit and immense capacity for love will always be remembered. “The pain may never go away, but the love we feel for Tails is more powerful than that. That’s what we need to hold onto. Tails may be gone, but our love for her will always remain.” Melissa will be dearly missed by all who knew her, but she will always be with us. "The light still shines even though the star is gone".
Nancy Hodgson
Nancy Hodgson went home to the Lord on 02-04-2025 at Hospice of Western Reserve in Euclid, at the age of 69. Loving mother of Melanie (Greg) Hurayt, Robert ( Nikki ) Rosier, Marie Rosier, Jimmy ( Amanda ) Hodgson, Brandon Hodgson.
Cherished grandmother of Jeremy, Joshua, Robert, Kimberly, Angel, Kash, Katie, Maraya, Hallie, Aaliyah, James, Jorden, Marcellus. Nineteen Great Grandchildren. Nancy was preceded in Death by her parents Leroy and Betty Ellis. Dearest sister of Roxanne Alan, Sandy Pettit, Linda Ellis, Julie ( Garry ) Blankenship, and many Nieces and Nephews.
Nancy enjoyed car shows, listening to music, making cookies for her grandchildren, and enjoyed family parties and Holidays surrounded by her family, loved spending time with her cat (Teddy )
A celebration of her life will be held on 03/08/2025 at 3:00 PM at Freedom Assembly Of God Church located at 5420 West Heisley Road Mentor Ohio, 44060
Floyd "Carl" Reichert
Floyd "Carl" Reichert, age 72, of Painesville, OH passed away February 10, 2025.
Carl was born to George and Doris (Thompson) Reichert (both deceased). His two brothers George and Dennis and step-mother Virginia Reichert are also deceased.
Carl grew up in Geauga County before moving to Lake County in 2013. He attended Chardon High School, class of 1970.
In 1979, Carl married Carol (Prosser) Reichert and were happily married 45 years. Carl and Carol have three grown children, Cory (Marla), Erica, Kevin (Stephanie) and three beautiful granddaughters that he loved and cherished Ana, Mackenzie, Madelyn. Besides his immediate family, he leaves behind his sister-in-law Laura Prosser and family, and many friends and coworkers he's made over the years.
Carl worked for Universal Disposal and then onto Waste Management, retiring in 2023 after 50 years. After retiring, his family knew he couldn't sit still and he got a part-time job at Wilder's Mobile Home Park in Chardon. He worked with some terrific guys but unfortunately had to give it up after his cancer diagnosis in September 2024. Carl fought a very hard battle in just a short time and met some of the most compassionate healthcare workers along his journey.
Our family would like to thank Seidman Cancer Center in Mentor, downtown Seidman, UH Home Care, Hospice of the Western Reserve -Mentor team, and finally the David Simpson Hospice House in Cleveland who were absolutely wonderful to Carl and all of us.
Per Carls wishes, there will be no calling hours. Thank you to everyone who visited, sent cards, provided meals, sent comforting texts, and for his special blanket from Tiffany that we will with snuggle in for years to come.
Joseph C. Russo
Joseph Carl Russo, 73, of Parma, Ohio, passed away on February 1, 2025.
He is survived by his fiancée and loving partner, Cindy Zarbo; his stepchildren, Kristy Elias (Vinnie) and Kelly Palmeri; and his cherished grandchildren, Sofia, Zachary, and Kendric, who affectionately knew him as "Papa Joe." He was a beloved uncle to Michael Russo (Sonya), Michele Gerencher, and Matthew Grillis, and a dear cousin to Rosanne Welch (Doug).
Joseph was preceded in death by his parents, Carl and Rosemary Russo; his brother, Salvatore; and his first wife, Tina.
A lifelong music enthusiast, Joseph had a passion for playing the drums and performed in bands during his younger years. He dedicated much of his career to the road, driving a semi for NAPA Auto Parts and Kurtz Brothers before retiring. In his retirement, he found joy in daily walks and spending time with his faithful companion, Samson, his beloved dog.
Family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Life in his honor onSunday, February 16, from 1 PM to 3 PM at Greentree Community Center, 1100 Greentree Parkway, Streetsboro, OH 44241.
Joseph will be deeply missed but fondly remembered for his love of music, his hard work, and the kindness he showed to those around him.
Peggy Ann Bane
Peggy Ann Bane lage 73, passed away on February 8, 2025. Loving mother sister and friend. A Service will be held at the Painesville Church of the Nazarene, 6235 Chestnut St. Saturday March 1, 2025 at 11:00AM. Immediately after a luncheon will follow the service.
Osmund Gary Stensland
Osmund Gary Stensland, age 70 was born in Painesville, Ohio. Ozzie passed away on February 5, 2025. He was known as Ozzie, Dad, Pappy,Uncle Oz, Wizard and Ozzie Bubba. Ozzie was the beloved father of Jami (Joe) Abel and Lori (Lawrence) Farrar. He treasured his time with his 6 grandchildren Otto, Osmund and Ogden Abel and Larry, Emily and Lindsay Farrar. Ozzie graduated from Riverside in 1972. He worked for Stanley Air Tools for 30 years. After retiring he began driving for Laketran for 17 years. Ozzie loved the outdoors and his cabin in New York was his happy place. In his younger years he loved fishing, boating, darts, golfing and bowling. He enjoyed hunting and telling deer stories with his buddies. He was fortunate to have great friends from childhood, work and the local clubs.
He leaves behind his brother David Stensland, 3 nephews, and many cousins that were like siblings to him. His childhood home on Newell Street will go down in history for crazy stories and happy memories. Ozzie was preceded in death by his parents, Julia Lesiacsek and Osmund Stensland and sister and brother in law, Eleanor (Ralph) Davis. Ozzie was alway a welcoming person and loved when friends and family would stop over and hang out in his garage. You never needed an invitation; he always had a pot of coffee waiting. He loved to tinker and fix things in his garage. His laugh was contagious and will be forever missed. Even in the final stages of lung cancer he was always happy for what life had to offer and ice cream! He often surprised the grandkids with a fry pie or oatmeal cookie from the amish. He was known for his famous Macaroni salad at gatherings. A Celebration of Life will be held March 29th at the Fairport VFW. Dinner and drinks will begin at 5:00.
David R. Gaebelein
David R. Gaebelein, 80, passed away on February 2, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Preceded in death by wife Dorothy J. Cooper Gaebelein, sister Claudia (Edward) Wolf, and parents Robert and Alice Gaebelein.
Survived by his children, Heather (Bryan) Moser, Patrick (Chaymae) Gaebelein, Timothy (Heather) Gaebelein, and stepdaughters Kelly (Wes) Reynolds, Betsey (Ben) Chapman, Jill (Doug) Laukonis; grandchildren, Sahra and Jimmy Brueggeman, Madison Moser, Gustas Gaebelein, Evan, Emily and Erik Laukonis, Cheyanne (Nitin) Gupta, Hayley, Evan, Braeden, Emma, and Lina Gaebelein; great-grandchildren, Landon, Lucas, Anthony and Jaxson Brueggeman; siblings, Suzanne (Harold) Reichert, Paul (Dorothy) Gaebelein, Nancy (Richard) Suchy; Niece Jenny Reichert and many cousins, nieces and nephews.
Dave enjoyed spending time with his grandchildren, telling stories with his great sense of humor, thrifting for a vintage find, and spending time sitting by the water with his wife Dorothy (Dottie). David was definitely an acquired taste. You never had to guess what he was thinking or how he felt about you because he would tell you whether you wanted to hear it or not. David will be missed by all who knew him because those who did know he had a big heart and cared deeply for his family and friends.
A Graveside Service will be held on Sunday, May 11, 2025, at 11 A.M., at the Bellevue Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the American Heart Association.